SRINAGAR: With an aim to transfer skills to a new generation of craftsmen, the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, today urged interested awardee artisans to set up Karkhanas under the flagship Karkhandar Scheme of the department.
The initiative aims to empower master artisans to lead skill upgradation programmes, revitalising traditional crafts on the verge of decline and fostering sustainable livelihood in the craft sector.
Giving details, a spokesperson of the department stated the Scheme provides institutional support, advanced training, and financial assistance to facilitate the transfer of traditional knowledge to the next generation, enhancing skills, wages, and market linkages through entrepreneurship.
Highlighting the salient features of the Karkhandar Scheme, the spokesman said special consideration shall be given to those master artisans who have demonstrated excellence in their craft, recognizing their potential to mentor emerging talents and drive revival efforts. “Selected Karkhandars will receive comprehensive support, including a monthly honorarium of ₹2,000 per trainee (for up to 10 trainees per Karkhana), a lumpsum of ₹ 25,000 per batch for logistical support,” he added.
He further stated that trainees under the scheme will also benefit from ₹2,000 monthly stipends, disbursed in instalments upon successful completion of their probationary training.
Launched in 2021 as a pilot project by the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, the Karkhandar Scheme focuses on identifying and training artisans in various crafts such as walnut wood carving, silver filigree, carpet weaving, Kani shawl weaving, Khatamband, Papier Mache, Sozni embroidery, as well as languishing crafts like glazed pottery, Numdha felting as well as Gabba and Wagguv making.
The Karkhandar Scheme has already transformed lives by sanctioning 80 units, empowering them to preserve our rich heritage while creating economic opportunities. “Eligible awardee artisans, particularly meritorious ex-trainees from the department, are encouraged to apply with online applications which shall include a completed form, affidavit, self-attested copies of documents such as Aadhaar, qualification proofs, and prior training certificates, and a passport-size photograph.
